On today's episode, I continue my conversation with Joshua Nichols. Though we disagree on hot topics like diversity, equity and inclusion and the impact they have on classical music, we have a respectful conversation about broader issues like the need to listen deeply, how to determine what good art is, and how we cannot know now what music of today will stand the test of time.

Topics in this episode include:

• The need to use new methods of teaching to avoid stifling learning outcomes
• Listening deeply
• Good music allows us to hear something new every time we listen
• How we decide what good music is, even when it is brand new
• The Sculpture's Gaze
• Unity and integrity in music and art
• How art speaks to (is in conversation with) other art
• Making the best art you can
• We don't know what current art will stand the test of time

Dr. Joshua Daniel Nichols is a composer, organist, pianist, and teacher

Currently based in Tucson, AZ, JOshua earned a D.M.A. from the University of Arizona's Fred Fox School of Music in Composition, studying with Professor Daniel Asia. He holds two M.M. degrees, one in Composition (Floridat Atlantic University, studied with Dr. Kevin Wilt) and one in Organ Performance (Mississippi College, studied with Dr. Robert Knupp.) He received his B.A. in Organ Performance (studied with Ms. Carol Durham) from Belhaven University. He is Artistic Fellow and Director of Technology at the Center for American Culture and Ideas.

As a composer, Josh's compositions have been featured and sought after around the United States. He has been commissioned to write ballet and dance music, as well as chamber percussion, and chamber orchestra. Critically acclaimed, he released an album of Summit Records titled, "Metropolis: The Piano Music of Joshua Nichols" featuring his major piano works to date. Josh draws on an eclectic musical background in film, commercial, and concert music, as well as classical forms and harmonic structures. Recent notable compositions include: Metropolis, Variations on Hatikvah, the Dover Sonata, and What Tongue Can Tell? His music is exciting, palatable for both regular concert goesr and academics alike, and deeply expressive.

As organist, Josh has emphasized his role in church music both as an accompanist of congregational song and service musician to elevate the service and liturgy. He not only prepares solo repertoire, but also is an active clinician in church music, improvisation, harmonization, and directing choirs.

As pianist, Josh continues to play as an instrumental and vocal accompanist, as well as in musical theater. He is also a clinician in piano improvisation, harmonization, and vocal coaching.

Joshua's website: www.joshdnichols.com

The Center for American Culture and Ideas: https://thecaci.org/